Westminster Mansions, the three-story Neo-classical building situated on the peri-central Highlands Road, in historic Yeoville holds a history dating back to the 1920s. It was home to renowned singer Lebo Mathosa, who once used the corridors as a make-believe stage as a young aspiring star. On the morning of 15 August, memories were lost when the building caught fire, destroying the entire third floor.

CATCHING FIRE

The building was once home to international designer Thebe Magugu, singer Nakhane and artist Andile Magengelele and was the set for productions such as Kings Of Joburg and The Wife. Neighbours and passersby were shocked by the smell of burning wood and rushed with buckets before the firefighters arrived. A resident at the building, DJ Teedo, says, "Never in a million years did I ever think this would be the state of our home. Once residence on the 3rd floor and now on the 1st floor, I can't help but sympathise with my neighbours and the loss they've experienced. We're grateful no life was lost but it's still a huge tragedy. Westminster Mansions is our little village of creatives and entrepreneurs. I hope the damage can be fixed soon." Another resident, media personality Maria McCloy says, "It was not a good day at Westminster Mansions. I am safe. The top floor is gone, and I'm heartbroken for those residents (I'm on the 2nd floor...We do not know what the full extent of damage is or what the future holds). No one was hurt." The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

INTERESTING FACT

Coincidentally, The Palace of Westminster in England is the medieval royal palace used as the home of the British Parliament and was largely destroyed by fire in 16 October 1834. The fire engulfed the Houses of Parliament and largely destroyed it with only a few parts able to be saved. From the tragedy of the fire came the opportunity to create a purpose-built building for Parliament, which has since become one of the most recognisable pieces of architecture in the world.